The Jewish Vegetarian Society has launched a crowdfunding campaign to open the UK’s first vegan and vegetarian community centre at its headquarters in Finchley Road this autumn.

Vegetarians, non-vegetarians and people of all faiths and none will all be able to enjoy the eco-friendly centre’s open-plan hall, community garden and demonstration kitchen where a number of cookery classes will take place. Other events planned include film screenings, workshops and talks.

Having first started in 1966 by a group of plucky Jewish vegetarians, the JVS has been going strong ever since. JVS director Lara Smallman said: “This is a very exciting time for the JVS as we embark upon a new chapter. We are delighted to be creating a home for vegetarianism and environmentalism.”